Discover Ohakune: Railway Heritage and Trails

Ohakune is the southern gateway to Tongariro National Park and welcomes visitors in both summer and winter. Here, notable railway history meets outdoor experiences: the Railway Museum tells the story of the railway, while trails and attractions offer different ways to shape your stay.

Railway History and a Notable Landmark

Ohakune Railway Station and the signal box form the centre of the railway heritage precinct in Ohakune Junction. The Ohakune Railway Museum is operated by the Main Trunk Rail Ohakune (MTRO) group and run by volunteers. It is housed in a converted railway shed dating from the 1930s, which was relocated to Ohakune in 1990. The exhibits range from everyday railway operations in New Zealand between 1900 and the 1950s to the history of the railway and settlement in the region. The museum therefore focuses on both railway operations and the region’s development.

The wider railway story connects Ohakune with the small settlement of Rangataua and the army base at Waiouru: their history is linked to the North Island Main Trunk Railway, completed in 1907. Another aspect of the town’s identity is Carrot Park, a unique place that reflects Ohakune’s history and values. At Ohakune Carrotland Adventure Park, a giant 7.5-metre-high carrot figure catches the eye; it has stood in the same spot since 1984.

Trails from Town to the Surrounding Area

One route starts right at the railway station: from there, follow the footpath to Mangawhero River Bridge and then continue for about 1.5 kilometres to Marshalls Road or the car park there. The Ohakune Circuit links the Mangawhero River Walk and the Jubilee Walkway; the three trails extend from the mountain to the town. In the surrounding area, the first phase of Te Ara Mangawhero includes a 12.95-kilometre loop that connects to the Ohakune Old Coach Road.

Routes also differ in length and difficulty, which is useful when planning a trip. The Ohakune Old Coach Road is 15 kilometres long, has a grade 3 difficulty rating and is of moderate difficulty; Ohakune is one endpoint of the route. It is part of the Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono cycling and walking trails. The Rimu Walk in Tongariro National Park is near the Ohakune community. It is an easy walking track and suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. The options therefore offer clear differences: the Rimu Walk is notable for its stated difficulty and accessibility, while the Old Coach Road is distinguished by its length and moderate difficulty.

More Experiences and Seasonal Highlights

There are various activities at Carrotland Adventure Park, too: visitors can ride the Flying Fox, and the pump tracks are designed for riders of all skill levels. A short drive from Ohakune, Turoa Ski Area offers sledding and scenic chairlift rides. These activities may vary by season, so check what is available for your preferred travel dates before planning. Together with Ohakune’s appeal to summer and winter visitors, they offer different ways to tailor your stay to the experiences you have planned.

Ohakune in the Ruapehu District

The western half of Tongariro National Park lies within the wider destination of the Ruapehu District; the park is a dual World Heritage site. Most of Mount Ruapehu is also in the Ruapehu District. The active volcano shapes remarkable alpine terrain, crowned by a crater lake at the summit. These regional features provide the setting for your stay, while the railway heritage, Carrotland and the trails mentioned here help shape your options locally.

There are two i-SITE visitor information centres in the Ruapehu District: in Taumarunui and Ohakune. They offer expert local knowledge and free, impartial travel advice. When choosing a hotel in Ohakune, use the kind of stay you are looking for as a guide—from railway history and local identity to trails and seasonal activities.

Discover more destinations: Retaruke, Raurimu, Owhango, Tongariro National Park, Raetihi, Taumarunui, Kakahi, Matiere.

For the wider travel overview: Ruapehu District.